Well, since running theory is that part of Zelena’s jealousy is that she’s upset Rumple chose Regina to cast the curse and not her, it is very likely that she casts the curse. And, we don’t know what is required for this curse to be cast. Could be different than the one Regina had.
Also, because of set pics, we know MRJ has filmed in what looks like Zelena’s SB homestead, and even the door picture spoiler recently. The new TVLine spoiler: “Patience, dearie. Within the next few episodes, the mystery of what’s been going on with Neal in Storybrooke will be answered.” makes it seem like Neal is in SB. All of those spoilers make it seem as if we will see Neal in SB. If he was used for the curse, he wouldn’t have lived to make it to SB.
It would definitely be a heartbreaking theory, but I think what we have so far is contradictory to Rumple casting the curse and using Neal.
Keeper Nealfire's/Bae's scarf, Henry and Neal's bribery ice cream sundae, Baelfire's sword, the coconut map, and more.